Karting Australia proudly hosted its 2025 Honours and Awards Dinner at Sea World Resort on the Gold Coast on Saturday night, celebrating the remarkable achievements and dedication of individuals who have left a lasting impact on Australian karting.
The evening featured the presentation of the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award, Impact on Karting Award, Life Memberships, and Hall of Fame inductions, honouring individuals who have shaped the sport’s landscape while recognising the contributions of those who have played pivotal roles in shaping the sport.
Lifetime Achievement Award
Alf and Maureen Capri
Maureen and Alf Capri are cornerstone figures in Australian karting, founding Ipswich Kart Club in 1958 and contributing to the sport’s growth for over 60 years. Their dedication extended to Karting Queensland and the National Karting Council, where they promoted integrity, mentorship, and advocacy. The Capris played a pivotal role in shaping karting governance and supporting drivers, officials, and volunteers. Their legacy is a lasting influence on the sport’s development, inspiring future generations of karters in Queensland and beyond.
Impact on Karting Award
Sandra Walker
For over 30 years, Sandra Walker has been a driving force in Western Australian karting. As Treasurer of Karting WA for 33 years, she transformed it into a financially stable and well-managed organisation while also helping Hurricane Kart Club secure land ownership.
Beyond finance, Sandra was a respected Grade One Steward and Clerk of Course, officiating events across the state. Her leadership, integrity, and dedication have left a lasting impact on clubs, officials, and drivers alike, making her one of the most respected figures in the sport.
Karting Australia Life Membership
Karen Arnett
A key figure in Victorian karting for over 30 years, Karen Arnett progressed from lap scorer to Race Director at the Australian Kart Championship. Her leadership at Bendigo Kart Club and dedication to training officials and implementing the CMS system have been instrumental in karting’s development. Her professionalism and mentorship continue to set the standard in race officiating.
Derek Ferry
With 30+ years in karting, Derek Ferry helped shape the sport as Newcastle Kart Club President and later as Chair and CEO of Karting NSW. His leadership strengthened Newcastle Kart Club, making it a premier racing venue. A Grade 1 Steward and Officials Coordinator, he championed transparency, family-friendly karting, and strong officiating standards.
Paul and Dawn Hull
For over 25 years, Paul and Dawn Hull have been pillars of karting in NSW. Paul, a former racer, served as Tamworth Kart Club President and State Technical Officer, while Dawn managed the club’s canteen and served as State Secretary for Karting Australia (NSW) Inc. Tireless officials at events nationwide, their integrity and dedication have left a lasting impact on the sport.
Sylvia Stania
A respected official and mentor, Sylvia Stania dedicated decades to Victorian karting. As Victorian Officials Coordinator for 10 years, she shaped the careers of many top officials with her fairness and extensive knowledge. A Life Member of Karting Victoria and the Go Kart Club of Victoria, Sylvia was a passionate advocate for high officiating standards. Her legacy continues to inspire the karting community.
Hall of Fame
Established in 2011, the Australian Karting Association Hall of Fame honours individuals who have significantly impacted the sport. Karting Australia acknowledged the existing Hall of Fame members during the evening before inducting four new individuals whose impact on karting has been truly exceptional.
- James Courtney – Australia’s most successful karting export, winning both Junior and Senior FIA World Karting Championships.
- Jon Targett – European Formula Super A race winner, mentor to James Courtney, and one of Australia’s finest international karting talents.
- Brian Hunter – Multi-time Australian Champion, renowned for his success in twin-engine karts during the 1970s.
- Graham Powles (represented by son Glenn Powles) – Two-time Australian Champion who built and raced his own karts, competing internationally before dedicating his later years to vintage karting.
- John Pizarro (represented by Marilyn Pizarro and daughter Lisa Dennis) – One of Australia’s greatest karting champions, securing 15 national titles and competing in five World Championships. A former DAP works driver, he raced alongside Ayrton Senna and Terry Fullerton.
2025 Inductees
Drew Price
Drew Price, a six-time Australian Champion, is not only one of the country’s most successful karters but also a visionary in the sport. As the founder of Drew Price Engineering (DPE), he transformed Australian karting by producing world-class chassis brands like Arrow and Monaco, elevating the industry to global recognition. His pioneering efforts in proving karting as a legitimate pathway to professional motorsport saw him transition into touring cars, paving the way for future generations to follow.
Remo Luciani
Remo Luciani has been at the forefront of Australian karting for over four decades, excelling both as a competitor and industry leader. With multiple state and national titles to his name, he went on to establish Remo Racing, supplying Australia’s karters with top-tier equipment and technical expertise. Beyond his business success, Remo has played a vital role in supporting grassroots racing, mentoring young drivers, and ensuring the sport continues to thrive.
David Sera
David Sera’s name is synonymous with karting excellence, holding a record 18 Australian Championships. His dominance on the track has cemented him as Australia’s greatest karter, but his impact extends beyond his own achievements. As a coach and mentor, he has dedicated himself to guiding young drivers, passing on the skills and knowledge that shaped his own career, and ensuring the continued success of the sport.
Jamie Whincup
Jamie Whincup’s journey from junior karting to becoming the most successful driver in Supercars history highlights karting’s role as the breeding ground for champions. Winning multiple state and national karting titles before progressing through Formula Ford, he went on to claim seven Supercars Championships and four Bathurst 1000 victories. Despite his success at the highest level, Jamie has never forgotten his roots, often crediting karting as the foundation of his career.
Photo of the Year
Karting Australia celebrated the incredible work of its accredited photographers at the 2025 Honours and Awards Dinner, recognising their dedication to capturing the sport’s action and emotion. With more accredited photographers than ever before, their tireless efforts—often braving the elements and working long hours—play a crucial role in showcasing karting at its best.
A panel, including renowned Supercars photographer Mark Horsburgh, assessed submissions across four categories. The 2025 winners were:
- Best Action Photo – Action in the Rain (NSW Kart Championship) – Ben Roehlen
- Best Emotion Photo – Consolation (Victorian Kart Championship) – Ben Roehlen
- Focus (AKC Round 4) – Ben Roehlen
- Best Overall Non-AKC Photo – Golden Hour (Golden Power Series) – Tim Francis
These images highlight the intensity and passion of karting, reinforcing the importance of motorsport photography in telling the sport’s story.
